Sn¡tch (ck)

Sade's

I get anxious when I go to visit the leader of the gang. I have to act all tough but not tougher than him. It's hard to look him in the eye. He's like a slave master. It's horrible. He tries to roast you and fails and you can never retaliate. *forces fake laugh*

His apartment could've turned into a bando. It's deep in Muskegon Heights. The most dangerous city in Michigan. Of course, though. On the bus, again. I better get used to this.

I just got off the bus, and this place looks like a ghost town. I guess the old dead gang members still roam the streets. Probably more ghosts than people at this point.......

The ground is just dirt and a few pieces of grass here and there. Me, scanning my environment can't see anyone else in the streets. The bus stop is in the middle of four beige apartment complexes. I think..... Sade lives in the second one.... I call him first to be safe.

"Aye, mane." He pulls me inside and shuts the door.

This apartment stank.

"Watchu want, boo? It ain't safe out here. Got crabs crawling round everywhere."

Gunshots.

"3.57. Should I close the windows?"

"Duh, dummy. That's them crips, I'm happy you wasn't wearing them colors or they would've sprayed you."

"Yeah, so.... I just came to see you. Haven't seen you since the last lick we hit.... when you killed that woman."

"That's it? You just came to visit?"

"Sorry. Sir. I'll leave—" I reach for the door handle when he pushes me onto the torn couch.

"Nah. You here now. And you hear them out there. It ain't safe."

There are roaches on the ceiling.

"Okay, I'm sorry."

I was just out there and it was a ghost town. Now there are people and guns outside.... If that bus was delayed even a minute I probably would've been shot before I got to his door. I have no choice but to stay here until he feels it's safe for me. This is punishment for making him get up from his chair. A 50 year old man, built like hulk, running a gang. Don't see that everyday.

"Imma get you a drink." He says as he stomps over to the kitchen, peering at me with his yellowish eyes.

Is it just me or did I hear someone scream?

He comes around the corner with a red cup. "I don't drink—"

"Well start." Sade orders me. "You're a grown man!"

"I'm a senior."

"You're still in school?"

"Yeah."

"Excuse me?"

"Yes sir."

"Anyway... I'm happy you dropped by. I've got something to take care of and you're helping me."

Take the wheel....